Toronto celebrates the true spirit of Barbados

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. enabled Torontonians to party hearty Barbados-style Friday night.

The tourist board decided to “bring the true spirit of Barbados to the heart of Toronto” by recreating its “iconic Oistins Fish Fry,” a lively weekly celebration on the island.

The downtown Toronto event featured live musical performances of Caribbean talent, including Alison Hinds, known as the Soca Queen; authentic Barbados eats; and samplings of Barbados rum.

Also on hand were stiltwalkers and people sporting the types of colorful costumes seen in Barbados’ Carifesta carnival.

Those on hand also had a chance to win a trip for two to Barbados.

“It’s great to promote the destination.  There’s food, there’s music, there’s a vibe,” said Brita Greaves of Barbados Tourism Marketing, on hand for an event that invited participants “to tap into the energy and soul of the island.”

“There’s everything but the ocean,” Greaves added.

Greaves said the tourism board hopes to make the Toronto celebration an annual event.

Meanwhile, Greaves said her homeland is seeing ongoing tourism industry developments, citing the likes of the opening of the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle, the newest all-inclusive in Barbados.